Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

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If there’s one dish that never fails to impress both on busy weeknights and when guests are over, it’s this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet. I can’t count the number of times I’ve turned to this comforting skillet dinner when I need something satisfying, easy, and a little indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth, especially after a long day.

The orzo cooks directly in the same skillet as everything else, soaking up all the creamy, savory flavors from the chicken sausage and broth. And let’s talk about the chicken sausage — it’s packed with flavor and brings a perfect balance of spice and richness without being overwhelming. I love how the creaminess binds all the ingredients together, creating a luxurious texture that’s just irresistible.

This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s both quick to make and fancy enough to feel special. Whether I’m throwing it together in a rush or planning ahead for a cozy dinner, I know it’s going to be a hit. It’s also a great choice for when I’m craving something hearty but don’t want a mountain of dishes to clean afterward. If you love skillet meals as much as I do, check out my favorites like the Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake, One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken, or the Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup for even more dinnertime inspiration.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

This one-skillet wonder combines simplicity and flavor in every bite. The creamy texture and bold taste of the chicken sausage are comforting and satisfying, while the orzo adds a delightful chewiness. It’s easy to customize, doesn’t require complicated ingredients, and everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious the next day!

Ingredients

Orzo Pasta – The base of the dish, this short-cut pasta cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

Chicken Sausage – Adds a savory, slightly spicy depth. I prefer fully cooked chicken sausage for quicker prep.

Garlic and Onion – These aromatics are essential for building a rich, flavorful foundation.

Chicken Broth – Infuses the orzo with extra flavor as it cooks. Go for low sodium to better control the saltiness.

Heavy Cream – Brings the creaminess that makes this dish feel indulgent and comforting.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds nuttiness and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated is best.

Spinach – A pop of green and a subtle earthy contrast to the richness. Wilts down nicely without overpowering the dish.

Olive Oil and Butter – For sautéing and enriching the overall flavor.

Salt, Pepper, and Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Basic seasonings to elevate all the ingredients.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. This step helps develop deeper flavor in the dish.

Step 3: Add Orzo and Broth

Stir in the orzo and pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and fresh spinach. Stir until the cheese melts and the spinach wilts.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Let it sit a minute or two to thicken, then serve hot.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

This creamy skillet is incredibly flexible. You can swap the chicken sausage with Italian sausage or even use rotisserie chicken for a different protein. Want to make it vegetarian? Skip the meat entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a plant-based cream. If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or even couscous can step in. Kale or arugula are great alternatives to spinach if you want a different leafy green.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for balance. A slice of crusty bread works wonders to scoop up the creamy sauce. If you’re serving guests, a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio makes a perfect pairing. For a cozy family dinner, it stands strong all by itself, rich and satisfying.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. This dish also freezes well; just skip the spinach before freezing and stir in fresh greens when reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats very well, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. Just store it in the fridge and reheat with a little added liquid to refresh the sauce.

Is Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet gluten-free?

Not with traditional orzo, but you can easily swap it for gluten-free orzo or another gluten-free small pasta to make it suitable.

What kind of chicken sausage works best for Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet?

Fully cooked smoked chicken sausage adds the most flavor with the least effort. You can go spicy or mild depending on your taste preference.

Can I use milk instead of cream in Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a creamy result with fewer calories, try half-and-half or add a bit of Greek yogurt at the end.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this skillet meal hits the spot, you’ll definitely want to try my Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup for another cozy, creamy experience. Also, check out the One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken, a quick and flavorful dinner idea that keeps dishes minimal. And for a fun pasta twist, don’t miss my Cheesy Taco Pasta Bake — it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can easily find it next time you need a quick, comforting meal. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family on Facebook or Instagram, and tag me so I can see your delicious recreations!

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